How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever stepped into a shower only to realize that the water hasn’t been draining, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only does it slow down your morning routine, it could also make it more difficult to clean when you’re done. While chemical drain cleaners are occasionally effective, they can also damage your pipes and damage the environment. The good news is that there are plenty of ways that you can unblock the shower drain, without the need for harmful chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can harm pipes and the environment.
- There are natural ways to clear a shower drain like vinegar and baking soda as well as a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum.
- Use the method of baking soda and vinegar: collect items, clean the drain cover and other garbage, pour in baking soda followed by vinegar. Wait for 30 minutes then flush with boiling water.
- For wire hanger methods Straighten the wire hanger leaving one end in its original form and then create a hook on the end and insert it into the drain to catch hair and other debris out.
- Method for wet/dry vacuums select the "wet" mode Cover drains that overflow by a cloth or tape, connect the hose to create an airtight seal, then turn to the mode for 3 minutes.
- Avoid future blockages by using a hair strainer in your shower, and running hot water after each usage and avoiding running grease down your drains.
Method 1: Baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Equipment
To begin you can gather the following items:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A rag or cloth
Step 2: Prepare the Drain
Remove the shower drain cover as much as you can and use tiny brushes or a toothbrush to get rid of any hair or other debris the drain’s edges. Make sure you wear rubber gloves in the event of need.
Step 3: Pour in Baking Soda in addition to Vinegar
Put one cup baking soda in the sink, followed by one cup white vinegar. Make sure to cover the drain immediately with a cloth or a towel to ensure that the reaction doesn’t explode beyond control!
Step 4: Wait
It should take about 30 minutes while the mixture works its magic. It should sound like there is a fizz and bubbling. This means it’s working!
Step 5: Rinse with Boiling Water
Remove the cover carefully and flush it with boiling water. This should clear any remaining debris and ensure that your water is flowing without a hitch.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a trusty wire hanger:
Step 1 Straighten It Out
Straighten out a wire hanger to the greatest extent as you can while leaving the other end in its original shape.
Step 2: Design an Hook
Make a small hook at the top of the wire you just straightened.
Step 3: Go fishing for Hair and Debris
Hook it into the drain and look to look for hairs and debris. Get rid of anything that comes up.
Method 3: Dry Vacuum Wet
If you have access to an upright vacuum that is dry and wet it could be the best option for you.
Step 1. Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum to "liquids" (or "wet" mode.
Step 2: Cover Drainage
Cover any overflow drains with duct tape or a wet cloth to ensure maximum suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to Drain
Attach the hose onto your drain, creating an airtight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Turn on the vacuum and let it run for approximately three minutes. This should remove any obstructions from the drain of your shower.
| Method | Supplies Needed | Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Baking Soda and Vinegar | Baking soda, white vinegar, boiling water, rubber gloves (optional), cloth or rag | 1. Gather supplies\n2. Prepare the drain\n3. Pour in baking soda and vinegar\n4. Wait for 30 minutes\n5. Flush with boiling water |
| Wire Hanger | Wire hanger | 1. Straighten it out\n2. Create a hook\n3. Fish for hair and debris |
| Wet/Dry Vacuum | Wet/dry vacuum, duct tape or wet cloth | 1. Set the vacuum to "liquids" or "wet" mode\n2. Cover overflow drain \n3. Attach hose to drain \n4. Turn on vacuum |
FAQs
How can I tell when my shower drain has become blocked?
If your shower is taking longer than usual to empty or the water is getting swollen around your feet as you shower, it’s a sign that your drain might be full or partial blocked. Additionally, a foul odor emanating from the shower could be an indication of a blocked drain.
What are the best natural methods to clear a shower drain?
You could try pouring boiling water down the drain, followed by baking soda and vinegar. You could also make an amalgamation of baking soda and salt and boiling water. Swirling the drain with a plunger could also be helpful.
Do I need to use chemical drain cleaners to unblock my shower drain?
It’s not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners as they contain harmful chemicals that could harm the pipes over time. Chemicals can also damage the surroundings and pose health risks for those who use them improperly.
What should I do if I need to call a professional plumber about my shower drain that is blocked?
If your DIY solutions don’t succeed in unblocking your shower drain, it’s best to call a professional plumber like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers in Sydney for help. Other indicators that you may require professional help are water backing up out of other drains or toilets, strange noises of pipes gurgling or smells that are foul out of the drains after cleaning them.
What is the cost to have a blocked shower drain cleared by plumbing experts?
The price of repairing a blocked shower drain can be different based on the severity of the issue and the location you reside. In the average, it will cost between $100-$300 for a plumber who can unblock a shower drain. However, more severe cases that require pipe repair or replacements could cost as much as $500-$1000.
Conclusion
Clearing out a blocked shower drain can be a hassle, but there are many alternative methods you can try before using harsh chemicals. It doesn’t matter if you use vinegar and baking soda, a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum, make sure you prevent future blockages by using a hair strainer within your shower or shower, and then running hot water following every use, and avoid spilling grease into your drains. If none of these options perform, it could be an appropriate time to seek professional help. If you’re struggling with a difficult or persistent plumbing issues in Sydney , contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers today!
Additional Information
- When to Call a Professional for Blocked Drains: A Guide
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- Save Money with These Simple Drain Maintenance Techniques
- Why Calling a Pro for Drain Cleaning is Safer and Smarter
- Examining Root Sources of Drain Clogs
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
- Tips and Tricks for Fixing a Blocked Drain with Ease
- Get Rid of Drain Blockages Permanently with These Tested Approaches
- When to Schedule a Professional Drain Cleaning Service
